Extreme temperatures raise concerns about fire and public safety.
‘Tinderbox dry’ conditions are creating an exceptional fire risk across London and the rest of the UK during the latest heatwave.
An amber warning for extreme heat has already been issued by the Met Office until the end of Sunday, with possible impacts to health, transport and infrastructure.
While temperatures are not expected to be as severe as those seen in July, where the fire service witnessed its busiest day since the Second World War, the lack of rain in recent weeks is expected to continue.
Firefighters have already tackled 340 grass, rubbish and open land fires in the first of week of August, compared to 42 fires in the same week last year, and chiefs are warning against barbecues in open spaces or balconies and to ensure cigarettes and rubbish are disposed of safely.
Assistant Commissioner Jonathan Smith said: “This summer has seen an unprecedented long, dry spell with high temperatures so the grass in London is tinderbox dry and the smallest of sparks can start a blaze which could cause devastation.